Smart and Sharp:
The Master's Degree Isn't the Master
For the past few months, we conducted a massive interview process for a new addition to our team. Last week we hired someone with less education than others we interviewed, but one who could add greater value. I have to say, for me it was a no-brainer. Another strong candidate, well-polished with an advanced degree, expected to be hired but lacked the stuff an education cannot guarantee. Instead, I opted for the candidate in whom I saw passion, the one whose abilities complement our team and whose overall diversity of experience brings something we lacked.
Last week, we hired passion. In no way am I discounting the value of an advanced degree—never that; it's just not our highest measuring rod. In a world full of people with Masters and PhDs, it's refreshing to know that our team is less impressed with credentials and more impressed with passion.
After all, that passion is what makes us so good at what we do!